Phelps
Granary

The
Manton Area Heritage Restoration Group’s mission is to preserve the
Manton area’s history, to protect its resources and to encourage
sustainable community development, said Bev Monroe, the organization’s
chair. Its first priority is to acquire and restore the Phelps
Brothers Granary, which is located downtown across from Railroad Park
and next to the Ramp ’N’ Rail Skate Park. Built in 1900, it had been a
working granary until about five years ago, Monroe said.

“It’s such a focal point in the town,” she said. “We really,
really want to save it.”
The group envisions possibly leasing one portion of the building for
use as a grain mill and feed store and/or an area agricultural
museum. The “store” portion would be available to the community as
perhaps a meeting hall; a classroom/training site featuring classes
in arts, crafts, music, canning, First Aid and CPR; a farmers
market; or a polling place.

A structural engineer from the Michigan Historical Preservation
Network has deemed the building structurally sound, save for a few
cracks in the foundation and roof repairs that since have been
determined to cost an estimated $10,000, Monroe said.
Those interested in helping out financially or in volunteering can
call Monroe at 824-3391.